Under what conditions can a pharmacist retain a prescription?

A pharmacist can retain a prescription when there is a reasonable suspicion that it is forged or altered. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the pharmacy practice and ensuring the safety of patients and the public. When a pharmacist suspects fraudulent activity, retaining the prescription allows them to investigate further, report it to the appropriate authorities, and prevent potential harm that could arise from dispensing unsafe or improperly prescribed medication.

The ability to retain a prescription under these circumstances aligns with the pharmacist's responsibility to uphold ethical standards and adhere to regulations. By holding back a suspicious prescription, pharmacists are not only protecting themselves from legal repercussions, but they are also safeguarding patients from potential misuse of medications.

In contrast, retaining a prescription because it has expired or due to a balance payment needed would not align with proper procedures and could undermine patient trust. Similarly, while a patient's request might seem valid, it does not provide a sufficient reason to retain a prescription unless there is an indication of potential fraud or unsafe practices.